Glade Run Academy (formerly St. Stephen's Lutheran Academy) is a licensed private academic K-12 school located on Glade Run's campus in Zelienople, Pennsylvania and in Utica, PA. Glade Run Academy is the largest special education school in the region.
Public schools collaborate with GRA to provide placement for students who require more individualized attention to succeed academically and behaviorally.
These students have emotional and behavioral issues or autism and benefit from more intensive therapeutic programming.
School staff and the home school district personnel from over 50 home school districts communicate regularly regarding the student's progress.
Beyond the basics, GRA's enriched curriculum promotes growth through such academic activities including outdoor education, sensory room, Sensory Playground, gross motor skills room, independent living skills apartment, transitional programming and an innovative on-campus animal, outdoor education, and an equine, animal and horticulture/agriculture program.
GRA also offers computer education, art, physical education and music programs.
GRA offers Extended School Year (ESY) programming. GRA offers transitional programming and summer independent living experiences for young adults.
GRA has an additional school campus located in Utica, PA.
Quick Facts (2026)
- Top-Ranked PA School
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: Kindergarten-12
- Enrollment: 298 students
- Acceptance rate: 100%
- Average class size: 8 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Glade Run Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Autism, ADHD, ADD, Behavioral health
Year Founded
1984
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
298 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
18%
State avg.: 27%
Academics and Faculty
Average Class Size
8 students
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
St. Stephen's contracts primarily through the students' home district; however private pay options are available. Different education programs (special education, enhanced, living skills, tertiary, ESY, and autism) have a variance in tuition rates.
Acceptance Rate
100%
National avg.: 82%
Admissions Director
Kelly Wheeler
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
6 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
1 extracurricular
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Student Council
School Notes
- Educational offerings include emotional support and enhanced education, life skills education, and autism education programs. A focus on individualization is achieved through the use of technology. Safety is attained through the use of the principles of Sanctuary and Posivite Schoolwide Behavioral Health Initiatives (PBIS).
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate of Glade Run Academy?
The acceptance rate of Glade Run Academy is 100%, which is higher than the national average of 81%.
Does Glade Run Academy offer a summer program?
Yes, Glade Run Academy offers a summer program. Visit their for more information.
What sports does Glade Run Academy offer?
Glade Run Academy offers 6 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Equestrian, Flag Football, Intramural Sports Only, Soccer and Weightlifting.
What is Glade Run Academy's ranking?
Glade Run Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for: Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for Glade Run Academy?
The application deadline for Glade Run Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
Related Schools
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People that viewed Glade Run Academy also viewed these schools: The Glen Montessori School, Eden Christian Academy, Watson Institute Friendship Academy The and The Jericho School For Children With Autism.
The nearest high school to Glade Run Academy is Sylvania Hills Christian (7.9 miles away)
The nearest elementary school and preschool is St. Gregory Elementary School (0.2 miles away)
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